Well-Connected/Respected Hockey Devotee Passes at 83

There are not a lot of Minnesota or metro-area hockey players, coaches or arena managers that did not know, or know of, Denny May.  The long-time manager of first, Braemar Arena in Edina and second, of Bloomington Ice Garden, affectionately known as “BIG”, passed away peacefully on 12/1/2019, in the company of his loving family.

I had the opportunity to discuss Denny’s life with several members of his family and appreciate their openness and willingness to share his background, family life, and career achievements with MHM’s fans and followers.

Growing Up in Mpls

 Denny grew up in south Minneapolis, right across the street from Powderhorn Park.

His mother and her siblings grew up on farms in Cannon Falls MN, and while growing up, Denny would spend many of his summers working there.  

Mike, his son, said, “I believe this helped develop the strong work ethic he maintained his entire life. He was very proud to have grown up in Mpls and was determined to raise his family the same way.”

He spent most of his days and nights at Powderhorn Park, playing hockey with the neighborhood kids.  Like many hockey players at that time, outdoor hockey was the norm.  Denny told stories of how he and his friends would play all winter long until they turned the lights out at night. He always boasted of how they would play all day even when the temperature dropped below zero.

He also enjoyed playing summer sports, many played at Nicollet Field, now King Park.  He would play tennis, baseball, and football with his friends.  

Danny, his son, said, “He remained extremely loyal to his Mpls background, maintaining friendships from his youth up until his death.”

He played hockey at Central High school, and graduated in 1954.

In the Service of his Country/College

Denny joined the Marine Corps in 1956 and according to Mike, spent two years “risking his life as an artillery spotter at the beautiful Camp Pendleton during peace time.”

Danny commented, “I don’t know a whole lot about his military experience. I do know that he followed a handful of his buddies who joined and then encouraged my dad to go with them. I recall him saying how he told his friends that they were crazy for joining, but he then joined as well and they all served in the Marines together at camp Pendleton. This also demonstrates his loyalty to his friends. I’m sure his military experience helped shape his character, as he was a very honest, hard-working man.”

After his Marine Corps experience, Denny enrolled at the University of Minnesota in a 4-year Bachelor’s degree program in Parks and Recreation Management.

He met his wife, Pat, in 1958 and they married in October of 1960.  School was interrupted by the birth of his first two children so Denny started working at local parks Sibley and Keewaydin.

Raising a Hockey Family

I asked the family what it was like growing up in a hockey family with Denny at the helm and how he influenced them.

Danny commented, “Growing up in our house was amazing, especially from a hockey standpoint. Most of my first memories involve playing hockey, whether on skates or playing boot hockey. My dad ran Braemar Arena when I was very young and then started BIG when I was 7-8 years old. We had access to those facilities and were the envy of all of our friends. When there was an hour of unrented ice time, my dad would bring us to the rink and we would play shinny games. We also had the best outdoor rink in the neighborhood in our backyard, which my dad developed and maintained. The entire neighborhood would spend all winter playing boot hockey at our house until my parents turned the lights off at night. Hockey wasn’t our only pastime or activity. We all played T-Ball, baseball and a little football. My dad also bought several boats when we were very young, and we spent many summer days boating and water skiing at Lake Waconia and Minnetonka.”

Chris, Michelle, Danny and Mike family skate BIG circa, 1973

Mike went on to say, “My dad not only raised 4 kids skating, (3 sons in hockey and a daughter in figure skating), but most of our friends too.  Several friends have commented how both our parents made them feel like family. My dad was always taking our friends and line mates with him to the rink to skate and practice, and as Danny mentioned our back yard was a flooded rink for the entire neighborhood. Tom Chorske, (one of my brother Chris’ best friends and line mate) has given my dad several shout-outs for all the ice time.  He would load them up in the car and take them to work with him.”

“Our hockey careers started at Braemar in 1965 when my dad was the assistant manager.  Open ice family skates started then and did not stop for 40 years.   We were always going to work with my dad.  We spent LOTs of time at BIG; the rink became our home away from home. In the early years we were lucky to hang-out with the first MN North Stars and Fighting Saints.  I will always remember going back to BIG on game nights with my dad, after dinner, when Jefferson, Kennedy and Lincoln would play each other the place would be packed.  My brother and I would stay late and sweep the stands and clean up the rink with Dad, stopping at White Castle on the way home.”   

“We were lucky our dad’s career helped shape our lives and the BIG was the centerpiece of our family and employees were an extension of that family. My dad truly loved his job and having us kids at work with him made it even more special.  When us kids grew up and got our own jobs my dad then brought his faithful black lab name “Sam” to work with him.  Sam had quite a legacy of her own at BIG.  We were spoiled skating on indoor ice most of the time but we had the best of both worlds.  My dad always flooded our backyard rink, put up lights and boards (which were old bleachers from BIG).  All the neighborhood kids loved to come over and skate and play boot hockey.”

“When we got a bit older we skated or with pros and college athletes we idolized.   We also skated with the likes of Wayne Gretzky, Soviet Union players Tarasov & Tretiak, the Edmonton Oilers and 1980 US Olympic team.  My dad even got a shout-out from his friend Herb Brooks – during the 1980 boys state tournament – when they asked Herbie what he was going to do now that the Olympics was over he said, “I don’t know maybe I will go work for my buddy Denny May at the Bloomington Ice Garden”.

Hockey was definitely in the Denny May family genes as the following demonstrates:

     –  son Mike May, Southwest High school / Mankato Mavericks
     –  son Danny May, Southwest High school / UMD Bulldogs
     –  son Chris May, Southwest / U of MN Gophers
     –  son in-law Sandy Smith, Brainerd Warriors / UMD Bulldogs / Played in Europe
     –  granddaughter Emma Smith, Varsity Brainerd Warriors senior
     –  granddaughter Alexis May, JV Benilde Saint Margaret freshman

Mike added, “My dad was active throughout his life, golfing, biking the Minneapolis city lakes, tennis, boating, water skiing, baseball and he and my mom loved to travel.  They took full advantage of the benefits of having a daughter (Michelle May Smith) who worked for the airlines. They traveled extensively thru Europe and the US.  He truly enjoyed family vacations in NY City and the Hamptons to visit his brother Tommy.  And after retirement spending winters in Palm Springs (with Marv Jorde and all the hockey guys). He was friendly yet sarcastic, quick witted and loved to give people a hard time in jest.  For his mild mannered exterior, he had a short fuse and a lot of passion.” 

Braemar & BIG Management – Lasting Connections

Denny worked at Braemar arena in Edina for 4 years starting in 1965, first as an assistant manager, then as the manager.  He followed that engagement as the manager of Bloomington Ice Garden for 36 years.  During that time he touched the lives of many people and became very well-connected with a broad and expanding hockey community.  I asked the family about his contributions/achievements during those years and how it influenced others.

Raising The Cup at John Johannson’s 1995. Mike, Chris, Chore and Denny.

Danny was the first to comment, “I think my dad’s biggest achievement and legacy from the arenas is the reputation he achieved. He spent 36 years at BIG, starting Rink One while it was still under construction. He then participated and helped BIG evolve from one rink into three rinks over his years. BIG and the hockey people who spent time there were like my dad’s second family. He was truly revered by the hockey community, especially from BIG.  I’ve never known anyone who truly loved their occupation like he did. He went so far above and beyond what was required of him because BIG was so important to him. He would work all day long, come home and eat dinner with our family and then return to BIG to work the HS hockey games at night. After the games conclusion, instead of going home, he would assist his staff sweeping the bleachers, and stay until every chore was completed. My brother Mike and I often joined him which I truly enjoyed. We learned every job at the rink over the years from selling and taking tickets, selling popcorn, skate sharpening, sweeping, and eventually driving the Zamboni. This helped us develop strong work ethics as well as finding it entertaining while watching great HS hockey games. Dad would reward us for our hard work with rolls of tape and the occasional hockey stick.”

 Mike added, “I think my dad’s achievements were two- fold: One – that BIG was and still is one of the best Municipal Ice Arenas anywhere.  He and Andy took great pride in the quality of ice, the cleanliness of the arena inside and out. Two – and most of all, he loved getting to know as many people as he could that came thru the doors, be it local, out of state or abroad. He truly enjoyed people, and was genuinely interested in their lives.  My dad greeted everyone – he knew just about everyone who came thru the doors.”

 Mike provided several touching and telling comments from close friends of the family at Denny’s passing.

• Scott Anderson – Denny was “larger than Life” a true ambassador of hockey and figure skating at the Bloomington Ice garden, When I think of Denny I think of BIG, a great family man and a friend to too many people to count in a lifetime!
• Tim Cortes – Denny was perhaps the kindest man I ever known. The May family treated all their friend’s kids as family.
• Nick Sperides – Profound sadness. Denny was awesome. A true friend of the hockey community.
• Sully – Denny May was the Best of the Best always had time to talk to everyone and anyone and always had a big smile on his face to greet you. Great Man, great family. I will miss our conversations but have many great memories to reflect back.
• Jeff Jungwirth God Bless Denny! You were a great light for the children of Bloomington when they would walk through those BIG doors with wide eyes and big dreams of being the next Gordie Howe or Wayne Gretzky. A lot of great memories were made at the rink that “Denny” built.
• Tom Papke – Denny was truly & forever in the people mind will be “Mr. Hockey”. I worked at BIG a few years! Grew up in south Mpls. & he flooded my childhood rinks at Morris Park. Never lumpy, always perfect the man was the master indeed. I feel so fortunate to have known this man.  Thanks for the memories. 
• Pat Hall – the hockey world had lost another great teammate. Denny was a Bloomington icon! In fact Denny was “BIG”. Perhaps the city of Bloomington would consider changing the name of BIG to Denny May Arena.

Hockey World Connections

Denny was a great friend of the senior/adult hockey community and was a close friend to many well-known and prominent players and coaches.  I asked Dan and Mike to elaborate a bit.

Danny responded, “My dad had many connections to the hockey world. Over the years he made numerous friendships and was influential in many a players lives. He always stepped up to arrange ice time for hockey players or teams. He would always find a way to fit people into the ice schedule to help them out. He arranged ice time for the North Stars and Fighting Saints in the 70’s when they were unable to skate at the Met or Civic Center. There were many occasions where he would arrange ice time for players who were recovering from injuries, or allow the Bloomington teams to remain on the ice long after their rental time expired. I recall skating with Reed Larson in the prime of his NHL career as he was recovering from elbow surgery, one call to my dad and he set up the ice time. My dad never complained because he enjoyed helping them out, which ultimately would help lead to the players or teams success. He never was paid extra for the hours he spent doing this, he did it because he loved doing so.” 

Mike added by providing several names that Denny had close contact with including Reed Larson, Tom Chorske and others.  He noted that his dad also be-friended the likes of Kristi Yamaguchi/Bret Hedican and Jimmy/Johnny Johannson.

Rink 3 opening, November 1993. Denny May, Marv Jorde, Charlie McGlynn, Stan Hubbard, Mike May, John Johannson

Roger Buck, owner of Buck’s Unpainted Furniture and GM/Manager of perennial Minnesota State and National Senior A championship teams back in the days of full-contact senior hockey, said this about Denny, “Denny May touched so many lives in his years at the Bloomington Ice Garden. Of all the rinks I went to over the years in Minnesota and all over the country the BIG was by far the best run.  After a high school hockey game at 10:30 at night you would see Denny sweeping the stands even though many times he would be back at 5-6 am to open. He was not only an administrator to youth hockey but also always found time for adult and senior hockey.  Senior teams Buck’s and Parkers hosted both State and National Tournaments at BIG.  Tournaments are always tight budgeted so Denny rather than have additional city paid employees would come in and run the Zamboni so the tournaments could run efficiently. If you’re wondering about his popularity in the hockey world just try to walk around an event such as sectional high school playoffs at Mariucci with Denny.  It was like you were with the hottest of Hollywood stars…every 10 feet he was stopped for a chat with someone, and ALWAYS knew their kids names.  Our senior team was in Sun Valley, Idaho, and Denny had joined us on the trip as his son Chris was on the Buck’s team.  In the bar after the game numerous people were excited to see and talk to him.  God Bless, he was a Great American and friend to thousands.”

Tom Chorske, former Gopher hockey star, NHL veteran of 11 years, Hockey Broadcast Analyst and close friend of the May family provided this insight, “I met the May family when my original high school, Mpls West High was closed and I was transferred to Southwest High School my Sophomore year. In the Fall of 1982, as soon as we started skating for Captain’s Practice I found myself playing on a line with Chris May and we had instant chemistry. Soon we became great friends and I learned his Dad, Denny May, managed the BIG and any open ice could be skated on by us. It was a dream come true. Chris’s brothers were playing college hockey (Mike at Mankato State, Danny at UMD) so we would all skate together at times. I think Denny loved allowing us to skate and improve as well as knowing we were hanging out together, and he was making it happen. I spent so much time at the May’s house and at BIG that Denny was like a second father to me. Denny was not only the manager of BIG, but he also acted as an Ambassador for the arena. He always chatted with the groups who were renting ice and the fans who came through the doors. Denny was polite with the people he didn’t know but he “chirped” and barbed all of his friends and us boys as much as he could…he was a wise-ass in that regard. During the 80’s and 90’s many of the state’s biggest games and rivalries happened at BIG (Lake Conference games / Jefferson vs Kennedy) and Denny made sure they went off without a hitch. Denny was very proud of the BIG and of the team he had put together. It’s sad he’s gone.”

 Denny May – Legacy

Denny will have a lasting influence on many people.  I asked the family how they would want him to be remembered.

Danny provided this comment, “My dad will be remembered just as I would like him to be remembered. The most genuine, friendly, funny, hard-working, loyal, family man I have ever known. I never met a single person who didn’t adore my dad, and I never heard anyone say one bad thing about him. We should all be so wonderful!”

Mike added, “As far as his legacy, first and foremost, is his love of his family and always doing whatever he could to make our lives better.  Secondly BIG was truly his baby.  He nurtured BIG from the beginning, opening the arena and running it for 36 years.  That is where he had his biggest impact on the hockey community.  He would want to be remembered as a great guy that worked hard, ran his arena pretty much the way he wanted to, touched the lives of countless people, raised a great family and had a great life.”

Who Knew – Only a Few

Few people knew this about Denny May.

Danny revealed, “My dad was so transparent that I really think everyone knew the real Denny May, very few secrets. I guess the only thing some don’t know is that he was somewhat of a caveman. He viewed luxury or convenience as evil words. He refused to use the snow blower or dishwasher, and seemed to thrive on making things difficult for himself. He wouldn’t spend money on any luxury for my mom and him, at the same time never allowing his children or friends to spend any of our own money on anything. He would always pick up dinner checks, pay for our golf, or any other way he could spend his money on others, but never on himself.”

Mike added, “My dad made friendships and gave purpose to those in need he could sense it.  Yet he teased and joked with them too.  Andy Baltgalvis who took over as manager of BIG was a Vietnam Vet – who my dad gave a part time job at Braemar before he went to Vietnam and when he returned Denny gave him a home and purpose at BIG, Andy says he owes his career to my dad.”

Finally, Mike confided, “Even in my dad’s final days he was worried who would tell TJ Gannon, a boy with special needs whom he gave a job to at the rink. Back when my dad was at BIG, he listed TJ as an “assistant manager” in a nationwide book of some sort listing arenas – to say this made Tj’s day is an understatement.”

Celebration of Life

A Celebration of Life will be held in Denny’s honor on December 27, 2019 from 4-8pm at the Knights of Columbus on American Blvd in Bloomington.

All are welcome!

Here is an updated Obituary. 

Denny May (1936-2019)

Dennis May, (born 6/30/1936 – pasted 12/1/2019 at 83 years of age, wed Patricia Meder 10/8/1960)

Dennis died peacefully on 12/1/2019, in the presences of his loving family.  Preceded in death by his father George, Mother Francis and bother Tom.  Denny grew up overlooking Powderhorn Park and loved his “hood” until the day he died appropriately at Abbott NW Hospital.

He graduated from Central High in 1954, then joined the Marine Corps and spent two years risking his life as an artillery spotter at the beautiful Camp Pendleton during peace time. He then enrolled at the University of Minnesota for an extended version of bachelors in Park and Recreation, (4-year degree). This was interrupted by the birth of his first three children and working at local parks Sibley and Keewaydin where he developed friendships that lasted his lifetime. After graduation he was hired as the assistant manager of the newly opened Braemar Ice Arena in 1965.   Two years later he was promoted to the Manager and was even featured on the CBS Nightly News by the famous Hayward Hale Broun.  He left Braemar in 1970 when the City of Bloomington came calling.  He accepted the manager position at BIG (Bloomington Ice Garden), a new arena. He spent 36 wonderful years at BIG and formed countless friendships and made his indelible mark on the hockey community. 

In retirement he spent winters in Palm Springs with his lovely wife of nearly sixty years and spent summers enjoying golfing and biking the Minneapolis city lakes. He adored his two granddaughters and rarely missed any activity they were involved in, especially hockey.  He also loved his yard and kept it impeccable with flowers shrubs and a nicely groomed lawn.  Denny lived a wonderful life and enjoyed family ski trips, and going to his brothers’ home in the Hamptons.

Denny is survived in life by his wife Patricia, sons Mike (Jillian), Danny (Stacy), Chris (Ame) and his daughter Michelle Smith (Sandy).  Granddaughters Emma Smith and Alexis May. Please join his family for a Celebration of Life on December 27, 2019 from 4-8pm at the Knights of Columbus on American Blvd in Bloomington.  

The post Braemar/BIG Manager – Denny May appeared first on Minnesota Hockey Magazine.

Team participates in 2019 Dawg Nation Hockey Foundation Tournament

The MN Old Timers hockey team out of the Twin Cities has traveled near and far across the US, Canada and Europe to find interesting and challenging places to play adult recreational hockey. 

Seven years ago, the daughter of one of the team organizers, Karen Zietlow, a former college hockey player in MN and now a resident of CO, invited the “old guys” back in MN to come to Littleton, CO, to play in a charity tournament called the Dawg Bowl, put on by an organization called the Dawg Nation Hockey Foundation. They have played in 6 tournaments to date and continue traveling to CO for some very good reasons.  Read on…

About the Dawg Nation Hockey Foundation. 

What they are all about can be gleaned from their mission statement: We, the Dawg Nation Hockey Foundation, are committed to supporting the hockey family. By accessing the unique power and compassion of the hockey community, we celebrate life and provide help in times of need. 

It all started in January of 2011.  A small group of adult recreation league hockey players, lead by now Executive Director, Martin Richardson, decided to start the Foundation by honoring a fallen friend.  Eight years later their idea to “make a difference” has grown into a truly remarkable organization to support families in need. 

From their literature: the Dawg Nation Hockey Foundation is a nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting the spirit of fellowship via recreational hockey competition, supporting players and player’s families in high standards of health, wellness, and fair play, and supporting league and team players in local community outreach.

Since its inception, it has touched the lives of many “survivors”, the term given to players recovering from an injury or families dealing with a serious illness.  Dawg Nation has changed the lives of many recipients with its financial support and also of the volunteers who donate their time to help out.  As described by them: Dawg Nation Hockey Foundation exists for one reason, to help adult hockey players and their families in times of crisis due to catastrophic injury or illness. It provides financial support for those in need and emotional support from peers to guide a fellow player through their journey.

While they have had great success to date, raising over $1.3m since 2011, not including this year’s tournament, they continue efforts to grow via sponsorships, grants and other fundraising events.  They encourage their recipients, when able, to volunteer their time, wisdom or skills to help further their mission. 

The Dawg Bowl. 

9th Dawg Bowl

The foundation holds 4 events a year, but their main fundraiser and featured event is the Dawg Bowl hockey tournament. Held at the Edge Ice Arena in Littleton, a suburb of Denver, the 2019 version and the 9th annual, featured 44 teams in seven divisions vying to take home a Dawg Bowl Trophy.  Interestingly there are no age specific divisions, placement is determined by the skill level of the players.

From the moment you walked into the Edge arena, you got the feeling what the event was about and how it was run.  The hallways were lined with the logos of an impressive list of sponsors and partners, along with a great selection of silent auction items, references to the survivor and sled hockey games, tournament schedules and standings by division…all very organized and professionally created and displayed.

The top Platinum division was a real showcase of top talent and was made up of many past and present NHL players along with top D1 players as well. Some of the big names included Paul Stastny, Jan Hejda, Nate Guenin, Brett Clark, Kyle Quincey, Peter Sejna and many more.  They put on quite a show.  All games were open to the public and were free of charge. 

In addition to the “Top Dawgs” games in the Platinum division, the Survivor game was the highlight of the entire tournament and was made up of hockey players who have suffered traumatic injury or illness.  They come together to share their love of the game, to support one another and to share their experiences. 

Last year’s Dawg Bowl Survivor Game was played in honor of the Humboldt Broncos, the Canadian junior hockey team playing in the Saskatchewan Junior Hockey League that was involved in a horrific bus accident in 2018 that killed sixteen people and injured another thirteen.

This year the focus of the Foundation’s support was on those who served our country.  The official program cover sported the phrase, “Supporting the Armed Forces”.  As a tribute, the Survivors wore military-themed jerseys.  In an emotional check presentation ceremony before a packed house, the featured survivor and recipient of close to $70k in support (probably more now), was “Bronze Star with Valor” Army vet, Jason Shepperly, who dropped the ceremonial first puck at center ice. His story is amazing and can be found, along with lots of other details about the Foundation and Dawg Bowl, including events and plans to build a sled hockey friendly rink, by clicking ->> Here. 

Shepperly was only one of three major recipients of DNHF support at this year’s Dawg Bowl.

Check out the above link and if you are so inclined, go to their donation page and consider supporting a great cause.  Also, the MN Old Timers may have been the only MN team to participate.  If you have a team that wants to participate, contact the DNHF and Martin Richardson at the email address on the their website.

For lots of pictures, stories, comments, check out the DNHF Facebook page as well ->> Here.

Back to the MN Old Timers.

Tony Rossini, Thomas & Aaron Johnson, dads Bruce Johnson and Bill Rossini

Last year the MN team had an average team age of near 65 and played in the novice (Copper) division of the Dawg Bowl.  There were 11 players over 70, and while playing fairly well in pool play, did not move on to the Sunday championship game.  This year, organizer Phil Zietlow, himself a cancer survivor and participant in the 2019 Survivors game, invited some younger players, including his own daughter Karen and some hockey playing sons of a few older players.  Average age at the start of the 2019 tournament was in the mid fifties. 

The players new to the tournament quickly found out that the hockey was not the most  important aspect of the weekend, although playing with your son or dad is pretty special.  Spending time in and around the Denver area is not a bad way to the spend a long weekend either…lots to see and do.

In the locker room before the first game, the team had the privilege of meeting three of the survivors including Graysen Cameron, the Humbolt High School Broncos bus accident survivor that was making a remarkable comeback and was scheduled to play with the Top Dawgs and in the Survivors game.  Check out our Facebook post that was shared from DNHF.  The survivors told their stories, shook hands with everyone and encouraged all to give support to the cause.  It was a special moment, inspirational and very moving.

Old Timers Organizer Phil Zietlow and daughter, Karen

Long story short, the younger players provided just enough firepower to help win their pool and get to Sunday’s final game.  Unfortunately, 3 of the young players had to leave Sunday mid-day to catch flights home since they had to work on Monday.  Also Karen Zietlow had to leave for a milestone birthday party in Colorado Springs.  This left the Old Timers with 11 skaters, seven over 70 going into the championship game late Sunday afternoon…back to an average age of over 60+.

With strong goal tending from Dave O’Brien, stout defensive play and some timely goals from the old guys after being down 1-0 and 2-1, MN beat a tough local Colorado team 4-2 and hoisted the Dawg Bowl Copper Division cup.  The players reflected on the moment and realized what was truly important about the weekend in Colorado.  It could best be described by the tag line of the DNHF:  “Play Hard, Play Fair, Give Back.” 

No doubt the Old Timers will be headed back to Littleton next year for a great hockey experience and, more importantly, to support the DNHF cause.  It’s a lot more than just another adult hockey tournament.

Back L/R: John Zietlow, Travis Phillips, Jack Bolke, Dan Semlak, Bill Rossini, JD Horton, Gary Horton, Phil Zietlow  Front L/R: Ed Handlon, Eric Blank, Dave O’Brien, Kevin Milberry, Bruce Johnson Missing: Aaron & Thomas Johnson, Tony Rossini, Karen Zietlow, Brian Hayes

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15^th annual Walleye Chop adult hockey tournament crowns 15 champions

While there was plenty to do this past weekend given Mother’s Day and the fishing opener, many chose to play some tournament hockey.

Eric Besse, tournament director for the 15th annual Walleye Chop adult hockey tournament at Blaine’s Schwan Super Rick on the campus of the National Sports Center complex, gives us the results of this years tournament held this past weekend.  Photos included.  Enjoy!

Hockey, socializing and tailgating give this annual tournament its unique vibe

Blaine, Minn. (May 14, 2019) – The 15^th annual Walleye Chop adult hockey tournament wrapped up three days of play on Sunday, May 12 by crowning 15 new champions at the Schwan Super Rink on the National Sports Center campus in Blaine.

This year, a full tournament of teams – 124 – competed in 15 different divisions for men and women. Teams represented seven different states and Canadian provinces: Illinois, Iowa, Minnesota, North Dakota, Texas, Wisconsin and Ontario. Skill levels ran the gamut, from divisions for players with minimal experience, up to the Men’s and Women’s A Division, featuring multiple past collegiate players.

For most of the teams, however, the fun activities rival the hockey as the big draw. There was a fish fry, plenty of tailgating, and a few beers consumed.

“This is probably our tenth year,” said Scott Sahs, with The Buzz, a Rochester team playing in the Men’s D division. “It’s awesome competition, and we love hanging out in the parking lot. It’s a good party atmosphere.”

Michael Johnson of Bloomington, standing outside his motorhome with his team, Fireside, said his team has been playing in the tournament every year, and he said it’s their favorite event of the year.

“The parking lot, the camaraderie, the hockey, the whole deal,” he said. “You just can’t beat it. Hands down the best; they just go over the top. We’ve always had a great time playing here.”

The popularity of Walleye Chop, which is always held on the Minnesota walleye fishing opening weekend, proves that not all hockey players fish. But fish, and fishing, are a constant theme throughout the tournament. Divisions were named after fish species, such as the Muskie or Northern Pike Divisions.

Here are the 2019 Walleye Chop champions:

Women’s Divisions:

Bowfin Division (Women’s A): Chix with Stix, Minneapolis.  See featured image.
Bluegill Division (Women’s B): The Mighty Drunks, Minneapolis.  Photo Link.
Salmon Division (Women’s B): Hinote’s Heroes, St. Paul.  Photo Link.
Sunfish Division (Women’s C): SISU Warriors, Thunder Bay, Ontario.  Photo Link.
Sturgeon Division (Women’s C): Texas Stampede, Dallas, Texas.  Photo Link.

Men’s Divisions:

Muskie Division (Men’s A): Greasy Mitts, Andover, Minn.  Photo Link.
Northern Pike Division (Men’s B): Scoregasms, Minneapolis.  Photo Link.
Bass Division (Men’s C): Rice Street Rockers, St. Paul.  Photo Link.
Bullhead Division (Men’s C): The Loonatics, Rosemount, Minn.  Photo Link.
Catfish Division (Men’s C): Bearsox, Grand Forks, N.D.  Photo Link.
Whitefish Division (Men’s D): SHLers, Minneapolis.  Photo Link.
Steelhead Division (Men’s D): Hecktor’s Homies, New Hope, Minn.  Photo Link.
Eelpout Division (Men’s D): B.H. Three, St. Paul.   Photo Link.
Carp Division (Men’s Novice): Hat Trick Hockey, Princeton, Minn.  Photo Link.
Mooneye Division (Men’s Novice): Minnesota Meanies, Coon Rapids, Minn.  Photo Link.

The post 15th Annual Walleye Chop Tourney appeared first on Minnesota Hockey Magazine.

Article Republished for HDM Minneapolis 2020

Olde Crabs Tourney Has Roots in MN

Minnesota native, Ron Faanes, a graduate of Minneapolis Roosevelt “from way back”, is currently living in Roxbury, Connecticut.  In 1991, he organized the Olde Crabs Hockey Club with a mission to encourage players young and old to get involved in hockey, to foster sportsmanlike play and to generally enjoy and inspire others to participant in the great sport of hockey as a life long activity.

Ron Faanes on cover of 2016 Tourney program in celebration of 25 years of Olde Crab hockey

In the early 2000’s, while in the Minneapolis area to participate in an adult Senior Olympics tournament being held at the Blaine Super Rink complex, Ron ran into an old University of Minnesota classmate, Phil Zietlow, who was playing for the Minnesota Oldtimers hockey club.  Ron was so impressed with the play and organization of the tourney that he returned to Roxbury with a grand idea; if you set up a local senior hockey tournament, they will come!

In 2005 Ron organized the Olde Crabs Senior Invitational Charity Hockey Tournament as a fund raising event for local charities.  It became a non-profit organization in 2006.  In addition to promoting adult men and women’s recreational amateur hockey, their charter is to serve the local community through charitable fund raising to help and aid the disadvantaged and needy.

The proceeds from their first tournament in 2005 were donated to the American Diabetes Association. Over the next few years their charitable fund raising grew in support of both local and national causes.  Those causes include domestic violence, Alzheimer’s Disease, local food banks, Salvation Army, returning veterans and the Connecticut Storm, a special needs hockey club focused on Autism.

Fast forward to this Oct, 2016, the tournament, held at the municipal hockey complex in near-by Danbury, hosted 30 teams and over 450 players from a dozen states in the 3-day event, where the teams battle for the revered King Crab Trophy.

Olde Crab division winner trophy

Sporting 4 different age divisions including a 40+ Women, 50+ and 60+ men (Elite and Competitive), and 70+ Men, the tourney has reached an impressive milestone by raising over $100,000 in charitable contributions.

For more information on the Olde Crabs Hockey Club, their history and the annual charity tournament in Danbury, see their website => HERE.

Ron had to give up his position as President and Tournament Chairman in 2011 when he shattered his hip prosthesis on his 70th birthday playing hockey.  The doctor advised him to quit since the break was so severe it couldn’t be repaired again.  Ron is still involved with fund raising efforts and has been given the title of Olde Crab Emeritus.

President’s Report to the Competitors

Here are current President and Tournament Chairman, EC Hoffman’s comments after the 2016 tournament…

JP Marquis Memorial Trophy, for tournament leading scorer and goalie

“The dust has settled, the winners are basking in their glory, the losers are dreaming about next year, and  the tournament Committee has finally closed the books on the 2016 Olde Crabs Senior Invitational Tournament. As President and tournament organizer, I would like to say thank you to all the Competitors who made the 2016  Tournament such a huge Success.  Speaking for all the Olde Crabs, we thank you for your participation, your competitive spirit, and especially your donations to our charitable mission. The competition was excellent in all divisions. The sportsmanship was outstanding, there were few if any complaints about the refs and, as far as I know, we suffered no serious injuries except for one broken foot. In and of itself, reason to celebrate (sorry Jamie).

 As you may know, the Olde Crabs Hockey Club is a not for profit charitable organization and the Tournament is a charitable undertaking. Your registration fees cover the costs of putting on the show but through program advertising sales and our fund raising website the Club generated over $20,000 that will go towards our charitable mission. This years’ record breaking effort is another milestone as it will take us over the $100,000 mark of charitable contributions since we began the tourney in 2005.  Playing ice hockey while generating charitable funds to help those in need is a win-win.

We’re proud of our achievement, thank you for being part of our team.”

MN Oldtimers Sport Impressive Record at Olde Crabs Tourney

MN Oldtimers, Jim Johnson flanked by the Cook brothers, John and Steve

When the Olde Crabs tourney started in 2005, Ron called his old classmate Phil back in Minnesota and invited the MN Oldtimers team to Danbury to try their luck.  It appears luck was not involved as the Minnesota team, made up of a group from Jim Westby’s old timers who have been playing in Bloomington for years, plus the famous Cook brothers from the east coast, have amassed an impressive record of 45-3 over the 12 years since 2005.

MN Oldtimers Ed Mackay proudly displays the Olde Crabs trophy

The 2016 version kept that winning streak intact, as they went 4-0 and took home the coveted King Crabs trophy.  The game scores were:

#1 – Syracuse Grey Wolves 0, Minnesota Oldtimers 9

#2 – Hockey Town (Boston) 3, Minnesota 6 (tied 3-3 after 2 periods)

#3 – Olde Crabs 70’s 0, Minnesota 7

#4 – Championship: Gerihatricks (Maryland/Michigan) 0, Minnesota 1 (only goal scored in the 1^st period).

It’s a good bet they are already looking forward to 2017 to defend their title and to help fund a great charitable cause, all started by longtime friend, classmate and Minnesota native, Ron Faanes.

Yes, Ron, there is a common hockey gene that links us all together.  It’s quite the fraternity!

2016 Olde Crab 70+ Champions

2016 MN Oldtimers 70+ Olde Crab Champions: Front row (l/r) , John Cook, John James, Phil Zietlow, Steve Cook, Back row (l/r) Eric Blank, Wayne Nelson, Ed Mackay, Rex Filstrup, Jim Johnson, Bob Chauvin, Ryan Brandt.

The post MN Native Hosts Olde Crabs Tourney appeared first on Minnesota Hockey Magazine.

(Article provided by Heartland Hockey Camp)

The Heartland Hockey Camp recently competed in the 2018 European Hockey Classic, in Zell am See, Austria, the week of October 2-7, 2018. The tournament featured teams from the following countries; Canada, USA, Sweden, Finland, Germany, Austria, Switzerland & Hungary.

First row; Carl Swaggert, Larry Herrboldt, Kevin Milbery, Kim Newman, Gunnar Moberg, Fred Paul & Eric Blank. Second row; Jude Boulianne, Joey Brown, Bruce Falk, Steve Jensen, Larry Stordahl & Rich Lund

The post MN Team Wins 2018 European Hockey Classic appeared first on Minnesota Hockey Magazine.

Thunder Bay Professor Travels the World

Latest Adventure Takes Him to the Himalayas at 14,000 ft

Reconnecting with Dr. Epp

Professor Walter Epp

I met Professor Walter Epp several years ago while playing in an “Oldies” tournament in Zell am See, Austria.  As part of a pick-up team composed of players from the Twin Cities, Colorado and Thunder Bay, Ontario, Walter was part of the Minnesota Old Timers 60+ team that won the Gold Medal in 2012 against teams from Austria, Finland, Canada and Germany.  The “Professor”, as he was affectionately called, hailed from Thunder Bay, Ontario.  He is an Associate Professor of History Education at Lakehead University in Thunder Bay, and he joined the team while on a research trip in Europe.  A friend and noted local hockey acquaintance in Thunder Bay had played for the Minnesota team in 2010 and this connection and Walter’s personal account of the 2012 Europe trip that combined research and hockey can be found in a related article on this website.  Just search for Walter Epp.

Fast forward to Sept 24/25, 2018 at a seniors hockey tournament in Duluth.  For several years, Duluth has hosted an old-timers tournament of sorts (no officials) that includes teams from Mpls, Grand Rapids, Duluth and Thunder Bay.  And who should I run into playing for Thunder Bay…you guessed it, the Professor, Walter Epp.

While catching up with him at the tournament dinner party, he tells us about his latest adventure as a member of an organization called “Hockey Sans Frontieres”, or Hockey Without Borders.

This organization connects volunteer coaches with non-traditional hockey communities world-wide to help coach/develop youth hockey programs.  Some of the potential countries targeted in 2018-19 include Serbia, Lithuania, Kyrgyzstan, India, Bosnia, Greece, Hungary, and the Czech Republic.  For more information on this amazing organization, check out their website =>> HERE.

Walter on Hockey Without Borders

Coaching in Novi Sad

Since joining Hockey Sans Frontieres in 2018 as ‘Hockey Ambassador and Artist in Residence’ I have traveled to Leh, Ladakh (Himalayas), Athens, Thessaloniki, Novi Sad, Subotica, Sofia, Kranevo, Pilsen, Eindhoven, and Santa Rosa.

The goal of HSF is to support the development of hockey around the world and, while I like to play the game, as Professor Emeritus, Faculty of Education, I also love to teach and learn and share hockey history and legends and experiences through hockey poetry, prose, music and drama.

Most importantly however I encourage the athletes to express themselves artistically in poetry, prose and art about their hockey experiences and impressions on a template that can later be assembled into a sphere for display and viewing.

In October my hockey travels will take me to Savastopol, Crimea; Almaty, Kazakhstan; Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan; Bangkok, Thailand and Belgrade, Serbia where I will also take part in the 100th Anniversary commemorations of the end of WWI.

Hockey in the Himalayas?  Walter’s Account.

Thunder Bay hockey player sets world record.  Hockey in the Himalayas.

On February 6, 2018, Thunder Bay hockey player, Walter Epp, participated, as a member of the German based team, the Rainman All Stars, in the Guinness World Record ‘Highest Elevation Hockey Tournament’ in the Tangste region of Ladakh in northern India. 

The Rainman All Stars, made up of 19 players from England, Finland, Germany, the Czech Republic, Austria and Canada met on February 1 for a conditioning camp in Leh, Ladakh, at 3500 meters and played a series of exhibition games against teams from the US, Slovakia, Germany, Asia and a local team the Ladakh.  The exhibition games were played on natural ice during the early morning hours as the direct sun makes the surface unplayable during the afternoons.

On February 4th the 6 teams set out in local taxis, hockey kit packed in a separate transport truck, over a 6000 meter pass to Tangste region where the world record event was to take place.  The scenery was as spectacular as the mountains roads were treacherous.

The teams were billeted in local guest houses with no heat and no water where you could see your breathe in the mornings, where water bottles froze during the night and where toilet facilities were primitive.

The record setting event took place at 4323 meters in -35 C windchill temperatures.  Each team was assigned a military tent, pitched on the shores of the wind swept ice, as a dressing and crowded into the players’ tent between shifts.

When asked how the altitude effected the game Epp responded “you could definitely feel the thin air but by keeping the shifts short we were able to keep up a good pace and although oxygen was available only a few of the lads from England needed it.”

The tournament, although fiercely competitive, featured great camaraderie on and off the ice as teams and individuals adjusted to the temperature, altitude, accommodations, food and playing conditions. 

The highlight of the Himalayan Hockey experience for Epp, who at 70 was the oldest participating player, was the post tournament exhibition game against the local Ladakhi team that turned into the longest game of the tour with the locals repeatedly asking for “one more period please.”  It was, according to Epp, “shinny at its finest,”

Epp at Black Sea Hockey Camp, Kranevo, Bulgaria, April 2018

Other non-hockey highlights for Walter, and his wife Juanita, were Buddhist temples, ice stupas, visiting a local school, visiting the frozen salt Lake Pangong on the Chinese border, cattle and donkeys and packs of dogs roaming the streets of the town and villages, crossing the two highest drivable passes in the world and interacting with the friendliest people anywhere.

The return trip featured a stopovers in Dehli and Mumbai with Walter, in his new role as hockey ambassador for the organization Hockey Sans Frontieres, making guest coaching appearances in several countries before returning to Thunder Bay. 

More on Hockey in the Himalayas

There are several good videos and personal accounts of this remarkable hockey experience at a 14,000 foot elevation.  Here are a few that you will enjoy…

http://www.guinnessworldrecords.com/news/2018/6/how-and-why-the-worlds-highest-altitude-ice-hockey-game-in-the-himalayas-took-pl

https://www.indiatoday.in/education-today/gk-current-affairs/story/hockey-world-record-in-himalayas-1296711-2018-07-26

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NXtqNvqiKDs

https://slate.com/news-and-politics/2018/02/the-inside-story-of-the-highest-altitude-hockey-game-ever-played.html

Meanwhile, Back in the US

Epp, 2nd from left, front row

Walter not only travels to exotic locations abroad, but also plays in Canada and in US-based tournaments.  He traveled with his Thunder Bay team to the ever popular Snoopy’s tournament in Santa Rosa this past summer and his team won their age group.  As a writer and poet, Walter penned this poetic account of the championship game.

SNOOPY 2018

Play the game; You never know; The Ballad of Thunder; The way it was; 70+A Division; California Gold; As I saw it.

Billy on the puck

The outlook wasn’t rosy for the Thunder on that day
The nods were five to one against with but the final left to play
With our two lines against their three 
Oh t’would be a gruesome fray
They’d turn our legs to lead, they said
that we’d be easy prey.
They came from Colorado with ‘some ringers’ In the fold
They had come to California intent on
winning gold.

‘Let’s play the game,’ our captain snarled
 and sneered a wicked grin,
‘Our two lines are fast and strong
And plenty good to win,
Let’s see some Thunder pride,’ he said,
‘and show them they are wrong.’

‘Man for man we’ve got them beat
We’re fast we’re skilled we’re tough
‘Just let them feel the heat.’ he said
‘You know we’re good enough.’

‘Unleash the Thunder boys,’ he roared
As we took to the ice
And It wasn’t long until we scored
And made them pay the price
But they fought back (they weren’t bad)
And when they tied it up
We knew we needed someone big
To lead the Thunder to the cup.
A man to score a mighty goal
To put them back in place, to slow them down
To set them back and put them in a hole

And sure enough a man appeared
Thunder pride upon his face
‘I’m your man,’ he coldly sneered
I’m ready for the task
Clear a little lane for me
And I’ll blast one past his mask.’

Behind their net, back to the point
everything in sync
There he unleashed a fearful blast
That rattled round the rink
We all stood back and watched in awe
And as it sailed on past – time stood still
And to a man we thought
‘my gosh it’s moving fast.’

It had a seeing eye  – it seemed
and right there in mid flight
It started doing wondrous things
That were stunning to the sight
It dipped it dodged it curved it verved
It ricocheted around
It weaved it wove it swerved it swove 
It made a rumbling sound

It was a thing of beauty, I watched it sailing by,
And I watched it as it found the twine
In that corner way up high.
Above the goalie’s glove it flew
To the only place that had the space
to squeeze that rubber through.

A mighty goal – we’re up two-one
We’ve got em on the run
And now the boys relaxed and smiled
And started having fun
We shut them down they whined
they swore
The Thunder win five – one.
And now we’re back from Santa Rosa
As CHAMPIONS once more

Stay Tuned

As Walter makes his way around the world, playing and coaching in far-off regions of the globe, we can be certain there is more commentary to come.  Walter is currently in Savastopol presenting a lecture series at the U and this weekend he will be the guest of Hockey Yalta doing on and off ice sessions.  Stay tuned for more.  

Bill R/MHM Staff

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Minnesota Hockey Magazine will be giving a Lifetime Achievement Award to Roger Buck for his decades of service to Senior Men’s Hockey as owner and GM of Buck’s, a Senior Men’s team that won a total of 17 state titles and 11 National titles.

Roger Buck took on the role of coach for the old Pierce Skates team back in the early 70’s when he recognized the need and filled in the role of coach.  Though not an actual player, he was able to recognize gifted talent, and by the time he changed sponsors to his own Buck’s Unpainted Furniture store (Buck’s), the team was well on it’s way to glory, winning it’s first National Title in 1984.

Senior Men’s Hockey in its prime had over 40 clubs around the state playing full contact 60 minute stop periods and featured former professionals, college players, or players who had a high level of hockey skill and knowledge.  The game in Minnesota is no longer played, as due to many factors, teams no longer exist.

The Buck’s rival, the Saint Paul Parkers (formerly known as Kostka Electric), have met for many years at Tom Reid’s and are opening up their annual celebration to all.  Come and enjoy lunch and celebrate with those who played or were active in Senior A hockey, as we recall the best memories from those who played during this special time of hockey in Minnesota.

The post Honoring Roger Buck appeared first on Minnesota Hockey Magazine.

Jack Norqual makes California dream come true

Santa Barbara, California is a community of about 150,000 residents situated on the Pacific coast about 100 miles northwest of Los Angeles. While fairly upscale with much to offer its population, one group in particular was conspicuously left out OF the cold: Hockey players and figure skaters.

With all its amenities, the city had no skating rink. Those who wanted to play hockey or figure skate had to drive up to 50 miles in each direction to get to the closest rink.

While a local developer initially set aside (and later donated) land in 1997 earmarked for a skating rink in the adjacent city of Goleta, it was based on the premise that it could be built by an independent organization.

For several years, a local group tried to figure out how they could finance building an ice rink on this land.  They had little or no success and faced the real possibility that the land would eventually be unavailable as a donation if something was not done soon.

Gretchen and Jack Norqual

Enter Jack and Gretchen Norqual, the generous Minnesota couple who had been wintering in the Santa Barbara area since 2004.

Jack, always looking for ice himself, saw a need and an opportunity to help create something very special in this sunny California region. Long-time philanthropists, the Norquals gave a donation to the Greater Santa Barbara Ice Skating Association (GSBISA), a non- profit, 501c3, in an effort to get things started.

The couple had been actively giving for many years to local community organizations where they lived and to schools where their son attended and played hockey, so this was not new to them.

A lifetime on the ice

Jack Norqual grew up in the Como area of St. Paul in the ‘50’s, the days of true pond hockey.  With Como Lake only a few blocks from his house, Norqual and his older brother Don, along with many local friends, honed their skating and hockey skills on the vast expanse of the frozen lake and the surrounding neighborhood ponds and parks.  It was here that Jack, and many from that era, found their passion for hockey and pride in their local neighborhoods and communities.

After attending St. Anges High School for one year, Norqual graduated from Washington High School where he played on the varsity hockey and golf teams.  He was captain of the hockey team his senior year.

He went on to attend the University of Minnesota for two years before transferring to the University of Wisconsin River Falls, where he was a member of the first UWRF Hockey Team in the ’65 -’66 season.  He was named MVP that year.  His on-going enjoyment for the game continues to this day, as Jack still plays in local recreational games and in adult tournaments all over the world.

California Dreaming

The passion for hockey and community pride stayed with Norqual through to retirement.

With no significant progress from their initial action, the Norquals gave a second (sizable) lead Matching Gift to get others to help out.  This also failed to stimulate the needed response.

In 2006, Jack finally volunteered as their Campaign Chair to lead an effort to raise the necessary capital, on a non-profit basis, for what would be the permanent home of a new arena complex named Ice in Paradise.

“I have never lived in a community without an ice rink”, Norqual said. “It was time for action.”

He used his extensive business experience and hockey connections to put all the necessary plans for success in motion.

Business Experience Comes into Play

Norqual’s initial work experience after college graduation included over 11 years with some of the leading edge technology companies in Minnesota including Control Data Corporation, Xerox Corporation and Dataserv.  This exposure to large successful companies served as the foundation for his future success.

The entrepreneurial bug struck soon, when he co-founded Winthrop Resources Corp, a new IBM computer equipment leasing company.  The business grew to 100 employees before it was sold in 1997 to TCF Financial.  It didn’t take him long to move on to his next venture, when, along with former Winthrop Resources partners, he formed Rush River Group.  The company made investments in both public and private companies and operated until 2012.

With hockey never far from his thoughts, Norqual purchased a well-known sports training company in 1994, called Acceleration Minnesota.  The training program uses treadmills to enhance speed/performance in both running and skating.

The concept was developed by John Frappier, an exercise physiologist from Fargo, ND.  This caught Norqual’s interest and not too long after he purchased the Stillwater and Coon Rapids locations, he decided to partner with his brother, Don, and expand.

Kurt Haring, Acceleration Plymouth owner, Minnesota Hockey Mag’s Scott Tiffany and Jack Norqual in recent tour of facility.

They added company stores in Eden Prairie, Arden Hills, Apple Valley, Brainerd, and Plymouth and also installed the Skating Treadmill and the training program at the University of Minnesota, where it still resides today.

Several years ago, Norqual donated an Acceleration skating treadmill and associated program to the USA Hockey (NTDP), National Team Development Program in Ann Arbor, MI, as an integral part of their training.  The program is still in effect today in Plymouth, MI, and provides important training resources to the top U17 and U18 players in America.

Norqual finally sold the Acceleration sites to their respective managers to be owned and managed by them.  In the Twin Cities area, the sites in Arden Hills and Plymouth are still active and continue to train athletes for both hockey and other sports.

Norqual’s ties to USA Hockey became stronger when he joined the USA Hockey Foundation Board of Directors in 2000.  He has been an active member for 15 years.  The Foundation works to enhance the mission of USA Hockey by making grants available to numerous organizations that share it values.

Ice in Paradise – Final Path to Success

Jack’s resolve to “get it done” lead him on a challenging, but rewarding journey.

His involvement in the Santa Barbara community and his position on the USA Hockey Foundation provided Jack with many important connections to local business and hockey executives at all levels and was instrumental in securing the needed financing to put the Ice in Paradise project on firm ground and allow it to move forward.  But it was no easy task.

Luc Robitaille (on left), Norqual, Ed Snider (with sun glasses) and city official cut the ribbon at grand opening. (Photo/Jack Norqual)

He spent considerable time over several years meeting with local people who could help fund and contribute to the building of the complex.

Primary focus was on including another local resident, Ed Snider, founder and owner of the Philadelphia Flyers.  After several meetings with Norqual,  Mr. Snider agreed to give a significant lead gift.  

“Ed Snider’s support gave our Campaign great credibility and was a big inspiration to me as well as the Ice in Paradise board” , said Norqual.  

Other donors soon followed and this infusion of capital triggered ground-breaking on November 20, 2014, after 11 years of fundraising.

A good friend of Norqual’s, former NHL star Luc Robitaille, who now works for the LA Kings as President of Business Operations, also provided valuable support and advice and has been on the project’s advisory board for many years.  Jack and Luc had previous business ties related to the Acceleration training program.

The project cost was estimated at about $15 million (including the donated land valuation) and features two rinks, a standard NHL size rink and a 100 x 60 foot studio rink.

Norqual was not the only Minnesota native involved in the Ice in Paradise campaign as others played an instrumental role as well.  Fellow board member, and close childhood friend, Parker Anderson, was the Project Manager and represented Ice in Paradise in the building process.  They then hired Minnesota builders, Oppidan Investment and Engelsma Construction to build the arena.  He worked with local banks to secure construction loans and with suppliers to support the project with donations, labor, and even the Santa Barbara sandstone that drapes the front of the complex.

With local hockey players watching, Jack Norqual is first to take to the new Ice in Paradise main rink. (Photo/Jack Norqual)

Fast forward to October, 2015, and the arena’s un-official grand opening was a huge success with significant local and state media coverage … with Norqual at the forefront, and also the first guy to take to the ice.

(See local TV coverage (KEYT/KCOY News) of the event here and the Ice in Paradise Skates to Reality article in the Santa Barbara Independent here.)

“It has something for everyone,” which Norqual said was a key consideration when he first got involved. “We did not compromise. We felt that the people have waited long enough.”

The beautiful complex is one of a very few rinks that will support adaptive/sled hockey with special bench areas and there is even a study center for the kids in the corner of the second floor terrace.  Public skating, skating schools, youth and adult hockey, figure skating, parties and private ice are just a few of the planned activities and programs that are well underway.

Santa Barbara Sandstone drapes the main entrance of Ice in Paradise (Photo/Jack Norqual)

The local high school and adult teams are already enjoying “home” ice without long commutes and the prospect of local college club teams (very big in California) one day playing there are very real.  Supporters agree that the complex will have a lasting positive impact on the city of Goleta and the Santa Barbara region.

With about $8.5 million raised as of October, 2015, there is still a ways to go to complete fundraising activities.  In addition to general donations, there are naming opportunities and a Buy-a-Brick program where personalized bricks will be placed at the complex’s outdoor donor park.

Until this is completed, it’s a sure bet Norqual will be involved in some capacity, while he relishes the thought of skating on new ice, right at home, in sunny California.

For more information on Ice in Paradise activities and programs, visit their website here.

Acknowledgement:  Norqual has generously sponsored Minnesota Hockey Magazine Foundation’s annual golf tournament that raises funds to send kids in need to hockey camp.  Last year alone the Foundation provided 33 kids with the opportunity to experience a real hockey camp in White Bear Lake put on by Hockey Mom’s USA.  Norqual and many others made this happen.

The post Minnesotan Helps Bring Ice to Paradise appeared first on Minnesota Hockey Magazine.

Fundraising events scheduled to help local hockey standout and wife

Jim Hoey, Joe Eckel and Tom Younghans contributed to this article

While it’s not unusual for a family to have one serious medical issue as the years pass, it is rare for both husband and wife to contract potential life threatening conditions at the same time.  This is the situation for South St. Paul native, Mike Powers and his wife, Ricka.

Mike’s Hockey Background.

Mike Powers is well known in hockey circles around the metro.  He played two seasons for coach Denny Tetu’s South St. Paul Packers as a fluid defenseman in 1969-70 and 1970-71.

SSP Packers, Mike Powers on bottom row, 5th from right. (Submitted photo courtesy of Ricka Powers)

Although disappointed the team in his senior year did not make the state tournament, Mike was named the team’s Most Valuable Player.  The following year he attended St. Mary’s College in Winona, Minnesota, where he became an all-conference defender in the MIAC.  He was noted for his quickness and his puck-moving ability and helped the Redmen to consecutive runner-up finishes in MIAC league play.

Powers left St. Mary’s after his sophomore season in 1973.  He played semi-pro hockey in the United States Hockey League for three years; two in Marquette, Michigan and one in Traverse City.

Mike as a St. Mary’s Redman in 1972-73. (Submitted photo courtesy of Ricka Powers)

The following year he played in the Southwest Hockey League in Minot, North Dakota.

In 1977, he traveled to Europe to play in a professional league in the Netherlands, where he hooked up with a former St. Mary’s teammate, Jan Janssen, who was playing for the Heerenveen Feenstra Flyers.  It was a good time to start playing for the Flyers, as they were to begin a seven-year (1977-83) championship run, winning the Dutch Cup each season.  As was the custom on most European hockey clubs, only two imports were allowed on each team.  About half the players were either Dutch-American, like Janssen, or Dutch-Canadian.  Among his teammates were former Grand Rapids star Donnie Madson and South St. Paul product John Shewchuk.

The Feenstra Flyers, Dutch National Champions. Mike Powers in bottom row, 2nd from right. (Submitted photo courtesy of Ricka Powers)

The Feenstra club, which was sponsored by the largest heating and air-conditioning company in Europe, was started in 1967 and is still active as the Friesland Flyers.  When the Flyers were winning all their national championships in the Netherlands, it gave them a chance to compete in the European Cup, where Powers played against some of the elite teams, including the Soviet Red Army team.  In training camp, the Heerenveen team often traveled to Finland or Czechoslovakia and played exhibitions against the best from those nations.

After nine highly-successful seasons in Heerenveen, Powers was a player-coach in Denbosch in the same Eredivise league.  At the age of 33, Powers played his final professional season with a team based in Amsterdam in 1985-86.  Overall, it was quite an experience for Powers as he had the opportunity to travel and play in most European countries and to travel to some pretty exotic locales.

Mike Powers and friends with Golden Shovel after winning 2006 US Pond Hockey Championship (Photo courtesy of Ricka Powers)

Since his return to the United States, Mike has stayed active in the world of hockey.  He spent 11 years as the store manager of Center Ice in Eagan and another six-plus years working for Minnesota Made Hockey in Edina.  He has extensive experience in hockey operations, in AAA coaching, and as a youth hockey clinic trainer and skills instructor.

In 2006, he and three close friends won the 50+ division at the U.S. Pond Hockey Championships on Lake Calhoun.  He has also participated in several adult hockey tournaments at both the local and national level.  Now in his 60’s, Mike still has energy and passion for the game.

Health Problems Surface.

Ricka and Mike Powers in a 2006 Christmas photo. (Submitted photo courtesy of Ricka Powers)

In May, 2014, his wife, Ricka, a breast cancer survivor, became seriously ill again and was diagnosed with another debilitating condition in the form of pulmonary sarcoidosis.  This caused tumors in her eye, lungs, and chest.  She went through major surgery and aggressive treatments to fight the tumors and lost her ability to work.

Mike, meanwhile, was laid off work about the same time.  While dealing with his layoff and seriously ill wife, Mike himself was diagnosed with stage 4a oropharyngeal cancer.  He recently went through surgery, chemo, and radiation.  As he regained strength, he started some part-time work again as a facilities technician for the City of Eden Prairie at the Eden Prairie Community Center.

Financial Hardship…You Can Help.

The loss of work and their illnesses have placed a serious financial strain on them and they can use your help.  A group of close friends has planned a charity event for their benefit in September.  This charity event will take place at the Xcel Energy Center on Sunday Sept. 6, 2015, with light appetizers and a silent auction at Patrick McGovern’s restaurant that same day.  The funds being raised will help provide Mike and Ricka with time to get back on their feet financially.  Events include:

1.  A special hockey game, Don’t Worry, Play Hockey, will include several former NHL players.

WHAT:  Benefit game for Mike and Ricka Powers to help them heal while fighting cancer.
WHERE:  Xcel Energy Center
WHEN:  Sunday, Sept. 6, from 5 – 7 p.m.
HOW:  There is a suggested donation of $125 per player.

If you are interested in playing in the Powers Fundraiser, please contact Ex-North Star, Tom Younghans at:

Phone:   612-703-4378 or E-mail:  youngy029@gmail.com

There are only about six available spots remaining out of 22, so act now if you are interested.

2.  The fund raising team has already collected donated items for the silent auction to be held at Patrick McGovern’s restaurant, 2 pm on Sunday, September 6th.  Stop in to check out the auction items and visit with friends.

3.  Here are a couple of other ways you can help:

•  Make a monetary donation to Mike and Ricka Powers via Paypal using this LINK.
• Send a monetary donation to:

Mike and Ricka Powers Benefit of Hope
℅ Think Mutual Bank
5200 Members Pkwy NW
Rochester, MN 55901
800-288-3425

Banker Kiersten Lawson
952-322-3512

 Finally.

Check out this fund raiser flier here…PowersFlier.

Attend the event if you can.  Help if you can.  Share with friends and hockey buddies who may know Mike and Ricka.  Show your support for Mike and Ricka during this difficult time.

Remember,

September 6^th,

Light Appetizers and Silent Auction at Patrick McGovern’s (2 pm) ,

Hockey Game at Xcel (5 pm).

 Thanks, MHM Staff

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